Foresters say widespread yellowing of the needles has been noticeable in the region since 2010. The damage looks serious, but it’s not. The trees themselves will look better in early summer, once the affected needles are shed.

The Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation is cooperating with the U.S. Forest Service and other states in conducting surveys to determine the cause and impact of any damage related to microscopic fungi, which have been associated with the disease.